Hanuakkah, the festival of light, begins tonight at sundown. Jews around the world will celebrate this festive 8-day commemoration of the miracle of a 1-day supply of oil lasting 8 days when the Jews restored the temple. More about that tomorrow, but today we’ll focus on some Biblical principles presented in this festival of light.

Though Hanukkah is not a major feast, requiring 1st century Jews to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, Jesus and His family certainly observed the festival, also known as the Feast of Dedication (John 10:22). It was in Jerusalem during the festival of light that Jesus said, “I am the light of the world (John 8:12).

Just as interesting, though, was Jesus’ earlier declaration and admonition to the multitudes in the Galilee:

¹⁴ “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. ¹⁶ Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

~Matthew 5:14-16

Jesus never missed a teaching moment, and He used things that were seen to teach His followers about things that are unseen!

Now, let’s consider these lessons of light: